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D Blues Scale
Also known as: Hexatonic Blues
Gritty, emotional, and expressive. The ♭5 (blue note) adds that distinctive blues tension.
Scale Facts & Direct Summary
The D Blues Scale consists of the pitches D, F, G, G#, A, C. Its interval formula is m3-W-H-H-m3-W with relative steps 0-3-5-6-7-10. It is widely used in Blues, Jazz, Rock music for its distinct gritty, emotional, and expressive. the ♭5 (blue note) adds that distinctive blues tension..
D Blues Scale Notes
D1
F♭3
G4
G#♭5
A5
C♭7
D8
Notes: D - F - G - G# - A - C - D
Scale Formula & Intervals
Interval Pattern
m3-W-H-H-m3-W
W = Whole step (2 semitones), H = Half step (1 semitone)
Scale Degrees
1 - ♭3 - 4 - ♭5 - 5 - ♭7
Scale degrees relative to the root note
Semitones from Root
0356710
Famous Songs Using This Scale
1
The Thrill is Gone
B.B. King
2
Crossroads
Cream/Robert Johnson
3
Pride and Joy
Stevie Ray Vaughan
Practice Tips for D Blues Scale
- ✓Minor pentatonic + the ♭5 (blue note)
- ✓Use the ♭5 as a passing tone, not a resting note
- ✓Bend notes for authentic blues expression
- ✓Essential for any guitarist or keyboardist
Common Genres
BluesJazzRockSoulR&BFunk
Practice This Scale
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